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Perth meth use declining according to waste water results

THE latest analysis of Perth’s waste water shows significant decreases in the level of methylamphetamine use in Perth in the 2016/17 financial year.

Compared to the average consumption levels recorded in 2015/16, the latest results from April 2017 show a 26.6 per cent decrease in Perth and a 41.5 per cent decrease in Bunbury.

Bunbury previously had the highest rate of meth consumption at sites tested in WA.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Pryce Scanlan, from the State Crime Portfolio, described the results as “promising”, but warned there was no cause for celebration as meth still posed a massive challenge for government and the community.

“The trend downwards in the past three test periods is obviously pleasing, but the sobering reality is WA still has a projected annual meth habit of 1.54 tonnes, with an estimated street value of just over $1.5 billion,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Scanlan said.

“The results from the most recent analysis in April 2017 were the lowest recorded in Perth, Bunbury and Kalgoorlie since testing at those sites commenced.

“However we have seen significant fluctuations in the results in the past and there’s no guarantee the lower levels of meth use will continue.”

Meth use in WA peaked in September 2016 but test results from November 2016, February 2017 and April 2017 each showed double digit decreases in meth use in Perth.

Meth use levels in Perth were down 22.6 per cent in November 2016, 23.4 per cent in February 2017 and 10.8 per cent in April 2017.

The decrease in meth detection in WA since September 2016 is mirrored by a corresponding fall in the State’s crime rate.

“We know from research that meth use contributes significantly to property crime and offences against a person, hence the importance of maintaining pressure on supply and demand,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Scanlan said.

“Whilst the recent decrease in meth use is pleasing, we are still seeing the tragic consequences of this drug in our community, our courts and our health system every day.”